A weekend trek with the best Himalayan forest trails

While we run many weekend treks, the Thakoor Top trek is our favourite for its superb forest cover. It is the variety in the forests that really sets it apart.

When you begin the trek it is through mixed forests. The variety of trees here is something to look out for. There is a section under coniferous trees that will leave you spell bound. There is hardly a moment when you run out of shade.

As you climb higher, the mixed forests give way to oaks and rhododendrons. This is when you feel the full alpine nature of the trek.

Finally, when you burst open to the snow peak views at Thakoor Top it is a crowning glory to a superb trek.

On the way there are clear streams to cross, clearings to camp in. All in all it is hard to find a better weekend trek than Thakoor Top. Considering it is so close to Nainital, we recommend it strongly.

The trek does require you to prepare for it. It is a climb all the way to Thakoor top. While it is not as difficult as a full fledged Himalayan trek, preparation is definitely required.

Why Thakoor Top is the weekend trek to look out for

Firstly, when you start from Chaffi, a sleepy hamlet in Nainital, you’re surrounded by hills that wear tall pine trees on their shoulders. From there, you venture deeper into the coniferous forests, where lines and lines of pine trees shoot straight up into the clouds. It takes you back to your childhood when you read Jack and the Beanstalk and wondered at how tall a plant could grow.

A trail through pine groves on the first day of the trek. PC: Indrajit Hazra

As you saunter further into the heart of a forest, the surroundings suddenly change into rhododendrons and oaks. They have a different feel altogether. The wet earthy smell, the cool air, the soft forest floor cushioned with layers of leaves, the moss-laden trees that tell stories of so many decades – no terrain can speak more deeply to your heart. Not many people wander through these trails. You’re one of the privileged few.

If you time it right, during the rhododendron season, that’s March and April, you’ll see the trail radiant with rhododendrons! Oh it’s a blissful experience to just stand and look around.

Trekking through the mixed forests on the Trail to Thakoor Top. You can see rhododendrons already in bloom. This picture was shot at the fag end of January. PC: Indrajit Hazra

Camping in the middle of the forest

Secondly, you not only get to walk through these forests, but you camp in the heart of it. Your tents are pitched in a clearing deep inside the forests. At night, you’ll sleep to the sounds of leaves rustling, branches creaking and insects scuttling about. It’s a charming abode for the night.

A clearing in the middle of the dense forest, where you pitch your tents for the night. PC: Indrajit Hazra

The views of the Garhwal Himalayas from Thakoor Top

Thirdly, the icing on the cake is when you reach Thakoor Top at 8,100 ft. The views you see are mind-blowing! At your eye-level, you see the major summits of the Garhwal Himalayas – Nanda Devi, Nanda Ghunti, Trishul and Maiktoli. If you can make it early in the morning, the views and colours are spectacular! Further down, you see the tiny hamlets of Mukteshwar, Bhateila and Nainital.

The view of the Garhwal Himalayas from Thakoor Top. PC: Indrajit Hazra

Just pick a weekend and go for the trek. You’ll probably sign up for it again the next weekend.

This trek was documented and explored by our Trek leader Indrajit Hazra.

Water sources: Carry sufficient water while starting the trek. You will find several points on the trail to refill your water bottles.

Your journey starts at Kathgodam, a town bustling with tourists headed in and out of nearby hill stations. It is the nerve centre for major tourist spots – Nainital, Ranikhet, Almora and Garhwal.

Kathgodam is the last railhead towards Chaffi, the base camp of the trek. From Kathgodam, take a shared cab to Chaffi, which is around 30 km away. Most cabs ply in the first half of the day. In case you don’t find direct cabs, break your journey at Bhimtal, which is 20 minutes from Kathgodam. From Bhimtal, take another shared cab to Chaffi. It is further 10 km away. If you’re trekking with Indiahikes, we’ll arrange transport from Kathgodam to Chaffi.

Chaffi is a picturesque little town that sits snugly in dense coniferous forests. With hills rising on all sides and the Kalsa river cutting through the heart of the town, it makes for a picture-perfect base for the trek. It is sparsely populated with a handful of houses and dhabas.

The beginning of the trail

Start the trek where the river forms a sort of pool. Cross the bridge over it. Take a left turn toward the concrete trail that passes through a few houses and a guest house. If you come to Chaffi a day earlier, this guest house is a good place to stay.

Quaint bridge near the start of the trek. PC: Avishek Dasgupta

A few hundred metres into the trail, you enter a small village called Belwal. It has a few scattered houses and the Kalsa river zig-zagging through it. Around half a kilometre from here, you come across an old foot bridge. It was built during the British era and its architecture reflects that. The trail now continues on the riverside in the middle of the valley. The river is with you for a good hour. Stop to fill your bottle in the river. There are several water points ahead as well.

The initial walk is through small bushes, with forested hills on either side. The tall pine trees on the hills make them look taller than they are. Soon, you see a foot bridge across the river. Get onto the other side of the river. Around 300 metres from the bridge, the trail starts ascending gradually. On this ascent, you come across a resort called Rinarani on your left. The resort is accompanied by one or two houses.

Just after this resort, the pine forests begin. The trail becomes steep and climbs over a series of switchbacks. It is quite a climb and requires strong legs. It is the most difficult stretch on this two day trek. The steep trail continues for half an hour until you reach a dirt track. The dirt track goes to Paniyal, about 5 km from this point. To reach this point, you have ascended about 1,200 ft – from 5000 ft to 6,200 ft.

Pine and rhododendron forests on the trail. PC: Avishek Dasgupta

Walk north for about 200-300 metres on the road. You’ll hit the pine forest again. The forest gets denser as you go deeper. It’s a pleasure to watch tall pine trees shooting straight towards the sky. You have to crane your neck to see the tip of the trees!

Half an hour into this forest trail, the descent begins. After 400 ft, the forest abruptly changes to an oak and rhododendron forest. It’s rare to see such variety of forests in such a short span of time. The forests are dense and dark. Sunlight hardly touches the ground. Come March and April, these forests will be radiant with rhododendrons. Try to time your trek in these months.

A few hours into this forest trail, you reach a flattish clearing beside the Kalsa river. It takes till around lunch time to get here, making this a perfect spot for lunch. Take a moment here for photographs as well; the river and the oak forests make for a beautiful sight.

It is an easy walk from here to Aghan, with a gradual descent all along. The ease of the trek allows you enough time and space to be enamored by the forest around. At this point, it is a mix of oaks, rhododendrons and pines. You see a variety of mushrooms on this trail as well – different colours and shapes. They are mostly used for medicinal purposes.

Stream along the jungle trail. PC: Shashank Shekhar

There is really no hurry. Take your time and enjoy the virgin forests before the day’s trek ends.

After few hours of trekking deep inside the forest, you come across a large clearing. It makes for a snug campsite surrounded by dense rhododendron, pine and oak forests. Aghan is at an altitude of 5,600 ft. From here you can see Thakoor Top, the summit for next day. The sight will fill you with anticipation.

There is a small stream, a little below the clearing on the right. It is a good water source. The clearing is essentially a terrace farm. To ask permission to camp,you have to walk to the hut on the left, on a raised terrace,where the owner of the farm stays. The village he belongs to, Bametha, is 1.5 km away from this clearing. Sit and talk to him: he has wonderful stories to regale you with and will tell you about the history of the place.

Day 2: Aghan to Thakoor Top and down to Chipa. Then drive back to Kathgodam.

Water sources: Carry 2 litres of water. You will find only one water source today, about an hour into the trek. Refill your water bottles here completely since it’ll be a long day.

Start early to Thakoor Top. The general rule of a summit trek is the earlier you start, the grander your views. And the views on this trek are something that you do not want to miss!

Follow the trail on the right side of the hut. You start through a clearing. There’s a resort whose construction has been abandoned here. Walk north and you will be able to spot Thakoor Top. Soon, the clearing gets left behind and wilderness envelops you again. The initial walk is easy until the trail starts ascending and hits a road head. The ascent till the roadhead is about 700 ft.

This road runs through the forest – the closest towns are Padampuri – 6 km on the right – and Bhowali – 12 km on the left. This road can be used for evacuation and transferring equipment. After walking on this road for about 300 metres, you hit a dense jungle trail again with rhododendron and oak trees.

Forest views from the trail. PC: Neha Rajpal

The trail gets narrow. Be careful in this section. A fall can take you tumbling down the forested slope by your side. After reaching the 7000 ft mark, stop to rest to enjoy the untouched forest. The last 1000 ft climb is strenuous. As you ascend this section, you will reach a viewpoint from where you can see the whole jungle you have been walking through. The view will take your breath away.

From here, brace yourself for the final push to the summit. The trail climbs quickly. So if you aren’t prepared, it is going to be quite difficult to pull through. It takes around two hours to reach Thakoor Top.

Thakoor Top is astonishing. Not only can you see a major section of the trail you walked on, you spot your campsite at Aghan as well. Aghan is seen from the eastern point of the summit. Apart from your camp, you can see major towns of Kumaon region like Bhateila, Mukhteshwar and even a little portion of Nainital.

But the best views open up at eye level. In front of you are the major peaks of Garhwal region: Starting from Nanda Devi on the right, Maiktoli, Trishul, Nanda Ghunti as well as some mountains from the Panchachuli range. You don’t usually get such spectacular views at such low altitudes. Have lunch at the summit.

After lunch, start your descent towards village called Chipa. The descent is not very steep and is only about 2 km. However, it’s a different route and it makes for a great experience. The rhododendron forest on this side is extremely enchanting. They start blooming as early as February!

After a descent of about an hour, you enter terraced farms of Chipa. From here you get shared vehicles or buses to Kathgodam and Haldwani. Kathgodam is about 60 km from here. You’ll reach Kathgodam by 6 pm if you leave by 3 pm. You can book a night train from Kathgodam back to Delhi.

How to get fit for the Thakoor Top Trek

The Thakoor Top trek is classified as an easy-moderate trek. From Chaffi at 4,600 feet, you will gain about 3,500 feet to Thakoor Top at 8100 feet and trek back to Chipa at 7,000 feet. All this in a period of just two days can make the trek quite demanding.

Cardiovascular endurance
This trek requires a good amount of cardiovascular endurance. You can begin by jogging everyday. Start jogging at a slow pace and then keep increasing your pace day by day. In order to be prepared for high altitude trek, you should have a combination of distance and speed targets.

In case you’re just starting with a regular fitness routine, you can phase out your distance targets in the following manner –

Target completing 5 km in 45 minutes when you begin

Gradually increase the distance to 7 km. Target completing this in 63 minutes

In terms of speed, make sure you’re able to jog 5 km in 35 minutes before the start of the trek. If you are 45 years old and above, your target should be completing at least 3 km within 29 minutes before you go on the trek.

Strength – Target 3 sets of squats with 20 in eachThis is another area you should work on. Comparatively, for a two day trek, the altitude gain is quite a lot. You may have to walk through snow depending on the months you go in and this could be taxing for your legs. For this, strengthening your legs will help. You can do some squats to strengthen them. Start with 3 sets of squats, with 15 squats in each set and work towards reaching your target in 3 weeks.

Flexibility
Another aspect that will help you trek comfortably is flexibility. For this, you can do some stretching exercises – stretch your hamstrings, quadriceps, hip flexors, lower back muscles and shoulders regularly. On your trek, it is important that you arrive on the slopes with your muscles relaxed. Carrying a backpack, however light, can become a strain after a while. These exercises will help you to be in good shape before the trek.

Here’s a guide to help you get fit for the trek.

Working out indoorsIf you can’t go out and jog because of time and space constraints, here’s a video you can use to work out indoors.

What to take on the Thakoor Top trek

Bare necessities

Trekking shoes: The terrain may be rough and you will need trekking shoes with good grip. Sports shoes will not be comfortable enough. You can watch this video to learn to choose the right trekking shoes.

Backpack (20-30 litres): A backpack with sturdy straps and a supporting frame. Rain cover for backpack is essential.

Clothes

Three warm layers: . You will need at least three warm layers (two lights layers such as fleece and woollen and one padded jacket) for this trek in winter. Two warm layers should suffice in other seasons.

1 trek pant: One pair of pants should suffice for this trek. But you can carry one spare pair in case the first one gets wet.

Two collared t-shirts: Carry light, full sleeved t-shirts that prevent sun burns on the neck and arms. Again, wear one and carry one.

Thermals (Optional): Those who are more susceptible to cold can carry thermals to wear at night.

Others

Daypack (20 litres): If you are offloading your backpack, you will need a smaller backpack to carry water, medical kit and some light snacks.

Toiletries: Sunscreen, moisturiser, light towel, lip balm, toilet paper, toothbrush, toothpaste, hand sanitiser. If you plan to use wet wipes to clean up after a trek, make sure you do not leave the used wipes/tissues back in the mountains since these are not biodegradable. The same holds for used sanitary napkins. Carry a zip lock bag to put used tissues and napkins. Bring this ziplock bag back with you to the city and do not dispose wet tissues and sanitary napkins in the mountains.

Cutlery: Carry a spoon, coffee mug and a lunch box. We insist on trekkers getting their own cutlery for hygiene reasons.

Two water bottles: 1 litre each

Plastic covers: While packing, use plastic bags to compartmentalise things and carry few extra plastic bags for wet clothes.

Mandatory Personal Medical Kit

Diamox – 10 tablets (to prevent AMS)

Crocin – 6 tablets (fever)

Avomine – 4 tablets (motion sickness)

Avil 25mg – 4 tablets (allergies)

Combiflam – 4 tablets (Pain killer)

Disprin – 6 tablets (headache)

Norflox TZ & Lomofen– 6 tablets each (diarrhea)

Digene – 10 tablets (acidity)

Omez/ Rantadine – 10 tablets (antacids)

Crepe bandage – 3 to 5 meters

Gauze – 1 small roll

Band aid – 10 strips

Cotton – 1 small roll

ORS – 10 packets

Betadine or any antiseptic cream

Moov spray (aches, & sprains)

Mandatory Documents

Please carry the below documents. Document two and three need to be downloaded (PDF), filled in, signed and handed over to the trek leader at the base camp.

Original and photocopy of government photo identity card- (driving license, voters ID, etc.)

Services of an expert trek team (guides, cooks, helpers, porters/mules)

Exclusions:

Food during transit to and from the base camp

Backpack offloading charges – Rs 500* plus GST of 5%. Charges for last minute offloading during the trek will be Rs 335 per day plus GST of 5%. The backpack cannot weigh more than 9 kgs. No suitcases/strolleys/duffel bags will be allowed.

Personal expenses of any kind

Anything apart from the inclusions

Terms & Conditions

1. Cancellation: If a trek is called off at the last moment due to a natural calamity/unforseen circumstances (like rains, earthquake, landslides, strike, bandh etc), Indiahikes will issue a trek voucher for the full amount. The voucher can be redeemed for the same trek or another trek in the next one year.

In case, you wish to cancel your trek, please e-mail us at cancel@indiahikes.in. Cancellation requests are not taken over phone.

The cancellation charges are as under:

Cancellations prior to 7 days from the start of the trek — full refund.

Cancellations less than 7 days from the start of the trek — no refund.

Please note: In case of refund, there will be a deduction of 4% (bank charges) from the total fee you have paid. Also, if you have opted for a trek insurance, the amount will not be refunded.

2. The trek fee includes all costs of the trek from the start at the Panthwari village to the end at Panthwari.

3. Pick up: Trekkers are picked up from Dehradun bus stand at 7 am. Usually, trekkers are clubbed together with other participants to make a group.

4. Transport: Transport from Dehradun to Chaffi and return from Chipa to Dehradun will be arranged by us.

5. Backpack offloading: Indiahikes expects all trekkers to carry their own backpacks. All common gear will be carried by the support team. If for some reason a trekker is unable to carry his or her backpack, he/she can offload the same by paying an additional charge.

Backpack offloading charges -Rs.500/- plus GST of 5%. Charges for last minute offloading during the trek will be Rs. 335 per day plus GST of 5%. The backpack cannot weigh more than 9 kg. No suitcases/strolleys/duffel bags will be allowed.

6. Emergency during trek: In a trek a medical emergency or any other emergency may arise. If for any reason you are sent down from the trek then Indiahikes will make arrangements for your return to the base camp or nearest road head. A staff will accompany you. He may not be a trained personnel.

Evacuation or dealing with emergencies is extremely difficult in the mountains. It is time consuming as well. A normal trek of 2 hours may take 6 hours in an emergency (a sick person is not easy to evacuate). Doctors do not go along with a team. Doctors are not available at the base camp or nearest road head either. Indiahikes trek leaders are trained to administer first aid and know how to deal with issues related to the mountains. However, they are not doctors.

Registering for this trek is an understanding that you have read up on the difficulties of high altitude trekking and understand the risks. You have also understood what AMS, HAPE and HACE are. You have taken efforts to educate yourself and you are in a position to manage your own altitude related emergency.

7. Fitness: A high altitude trek in the Himalayas requires considerable fitness. Your body needs to train itself to process more work with lower levels of oxygen. Therefore, on treks, cardiovascular training is critically important. You need to be able to jog a distance of 4.5 km in 30 mins before start of the trek. Unable to do so can make your trek difficult. In addition, preparation of trek needs to include strength and flexibility training. Registering for the trek is an understanding that you will undertake the mandated fitness training. Trekkers who have not adequately prepared may be asked to discontinue the trek at any point. Indiahikes has the right to reject candidates who do not meet our eligibility requirement at the base camp.

8. Non-liability: Indiahikes is not responsible for any loss/damage of your gears/equipment or other belongings on the trek.

9. Payment: Payment for the trek can be done online through credit/debit card or net banking. Cheque/draft or cash is not accepted.

10.Drinking and smoking during the trek is strictly prohibited. If found flouting the rules, your participation on the trek will be cancelled with immediate effect.

11. Safety Protocol
a. While our itineraries are designed to allow for adequate acclimatisation, most treks in Indian Himalayas climb quickly, which is called forced accents. Unavailability of camp sites and the Indian Himalayan terrain are the reason for this. There are chances that you will feel the effects of altitude sickness and oxygen deprivation while on this trek. Please be aware that your trek leader may deem it unsafe for you to continue trekking at any time, and arrange for you to descend to a lower attitude.

b. Our trek leaders will conduct routine health checks at all camps to measure oxygen saturation, pulse and blood pressure. Indiahikes reserves the right to exclude any trekker from climbing higher on the trek without refund if the trekker’s vital readings are below accepted norms for that altitude. These norms are available with Indiahikes trek leaders.

c. This is a high altitude trek with rough, rocky and snowy terrain. It is important that you are a fit and confident walker in mountain terrain, able to manage ascents and descents by yourself within a reasonable time. Indiahikes reserves the right to turn around a trekker if in the opinion of our trek leader they are unable to complete the itinerary without requiring exclusive assistance. Please realistically self-assess your fitness and suitability for this trek before registering.

How safe is the Thakoor Top trek?

The Thakoor Top trek by is supposed to be an easy trek. Though being an easy trek there are certain things that you must be aware of before you go on the trek. The trek being 16 km long, it requires a lot of endurance. And you climb an altitude of almost 3,500 ft which is quite a lot.

At Indiahikes, safety of a trekker comes first. You will experience it first hand on the slope. Your team is accompanied by experienced trek leaders, safety gears, high end trek equipment, high altitude first aid kits and most importantly the right information.

If there is a medical emergency on the trek, your trek leaders are trained to handle crisis, especially related to altitude and medical emergencies. Indiahikes team carries high altitude medical equipment, oxygen cylinders, and other emergency kits.

Most situations are resolved by the trek leader’s intervention. If, however, evacuation is required, it is carried out by the Indiahikes team. There are plenty of exit points throughout the trek so any evacuation needed is taken care of. The affected participant is moved down to the nearest emergency medical centre as soon as possible. This can take time, even 1-2 days, especially from high camps. Medical expenses, if required, at the medical centre are to be borne by the participant.

What Indiahikes does to ensure your safety

Our philosophy is simple. We ingrain safety aspects in the people we work with, in the processes that we follow, and in the equipment we carry. All our trek leaders are trained repeatedly on safety issues and protocols. Most issues are resolved with their intervention.

Right from the time you decide to register for the trek till the last day of the trek, these safety procedures will be running in the background. We have listed a few of them below:

1. Fitness criteria before registration

Over years of organising high altitude treks, we have found that safety issues thrive amongst those who are unfit and unprepared for the trek. So we have introduced an eligibility criteria for the Thakoor Top trek. Anyone who wants to register for the Thakoor Top trek has to meet the fitness requirements, with the ideal BMI. The BMI and fitness regime will require proof. A high altitude trek is not to be taken casually.

2. Monitoring health on a trek

Any abnormal reading will be paid special attention to and action will be taken immediately.

On the Thakoor Top trek, your Trek Leader will be monitoring two aspects thrice a day.

Oxygen Level

Pulse Rate

Your Blood Pressure levels will be checked once a day.

This will help us ensure that your body is acclimatising as required.

Every trekker will be given a Health Card at the beginning of the trek. The Health Card is issued to monitor the trekker’s daily health, wherein they will be entering details about their health everyday. It also contains details of what symptoms one should look out for and what action should be taken during emergencies. These Health Cards will be collected back at the end of the trek.

3. High Altitude Medical Kit

Your trek leader will be carrying a full-fledged high altitude medical kit. This will include basic medicines and specific medicines catering to altitude sickness – Diamox, Dexamethasone (tablets and injections) and Nifedipine. Your Trek Leader will also be carrying a portable oxygen cylinder throughout the trek. In addition to that, there are oxygen cylinders installed at all high altitude campsites for any emergency situations.

4. High Altitude Trek Equipment

To ensure safe trekking on snowy terrain, Indiahikes will provide you with micro-spikes to attach to your shoes. This will give you good traction on hard snow. To avoid snow from entering your shoes, Indiahikes will provide you with gaiters that you can put on over your shoes. You will have qualified technical guides with you, who will lead the way on difficult terrain.

All our sleeping bags and tents are custom-made for high altitude. If it is cold outside, it will be around 10 degrees warmer inside the tent. The sleeping bags can withstand temperatures up to -10 degree Celsius.

5. Being hydrated and well nourished on the trek

You need to drink a minimum of 4 litres of water on each day of the trek to ensure that you’re well hydrated. De-hydration on a trek can make you lose energy very quickly. Your trek leader will brief you about the amount of water that you need to carry with you at the start of each day as well as water sources on the trail.

We provide trekkers with nutritious meals to ensure that they are energized to complete the trail each day. Apart from this, snacks or packed lunch is provided wherever the trail before a meal break is likely to be long. Make sure that you do not skip any meal as this can lead to serious health emergencies on high altitudes.

With all these processes and equipment in place, you can be rest assured that you will have a safe trek with Indiahikes.

Nevertheless, you will need to be cautious and report the slightest of symptoms to your trek leader as soon as you feel them.

There are easy exits on the trail and the closest hospital, in case of an emergency, is at Bhimtal.

1. What is the style of accommodation in this trek?

You will be staying overnight in tents. Each tent accommodates 3 people and will have to be shared accordingly among trekkers.

2. Will you provide us with tents and sleeping bags?

Yes, Indiahikes trekkers will be provided with tents and high altitude sleeping bags that can withstand temperatures as low as -10 ºC.

3. What will the temperatures be like during this trek?

Day time temperatures will range from 20-15ºC and night time temperature will range from 10-15ºC in summer. In winter, these will be in the range of 10-12ºC and 7-8ºC respectively.

4. Will there be snow on this trek?

You will find snow on this trek in the winter.

5. What will we do if it rains?

If it starts raining while you’re trekking, we will continue on the trail as planned. Your poncho should protect you from the rain. Carry a backpack cover for extra protection from rain for your belongings. When it rains at the campsite, we usually get together in the dining tent and play games. The tents that you will be staying in, the dining tent, kitchen and toilet tents are all water proof, so you will stay dry inside.

6. How do we reach Chaffi?

Indiahikes will arrange for vehicles to pick you up from Kathgodam railway station. The drive will take you about an hour. This cost is included in your trek fee.

7. How do we get back after the trek?

Indiahikes will arrange for you to be dropped to Kathgodam railway station from Chipa, where the trek ends. You will reach Kathgodam at around 6.00 pm.

8. Which are the best seasons for the Thakoor Top trek?

This trek can be done any time of the year, though the trail might be slippery in monsoon. You will get to experience snow in winter and bright rhododendron blossoms in the spring.

9. Are backpacks, raincoats and other equipment available for rent from Indiahikes?

No. There are several websites that rent out trekking equipment. Indiahikes does not rent any equipment. You may purchase trekking poles and other equipment from the Indiahikes store.

10. Is this a good trek for a first timer?

Thakoor top trek can be done by a first timer since it’s an easy-moderate trek. However, you need to be fit since you will be continuously ascending on the way to Thakoor Top and the descent can get tough on your knees. Make sure that you prepare before setting off on the trek.

11. If not the Thakoor Top trek, what is a good alternative trek to do?

Prashar Lake trek is a good weekend option from Delhi. It is located in Himachal Pradesh and is accessible from Mandi. If you have an additional day, you could also consider the Nag Tibba trek.

12. Is there an option to offload my backpack on this trek?

Yes, there is an option to offload your backpack. This will cost Rs.500 + 5% GTS if you inform us in advance. If you decide to offload once you reach Chaffi, the amount will be Rs.335 per day + 5% GST. The offloaded bag should not weigh more than 9 kg. Strolleys, duffel bags, suitcases etc. are not allowed. We suggest you read “5 Tips to make Carrying your Trekking Backpack Easy” before making a decision.

13. Can I take my child along on this trek? What is the age limit?

Since the trail is not too difficult, a child above 10 years who is physically fit can go on this trek.

14. Who will be with us on the trek from Indiahikes?

An Indiahikes team consisting of a qualified Trek leader, trek guides, porters and cooks will be with you throughout the trek.

15. What are washroom/toilet facilities like on the trek?

Toilet tents will be set up along the campsite. There will be 2-4 of these toilet tents depending on the size of the group. A toilet tent will have a deep pit, where one can answer nature’s call. There will be a mound of soil and a shovel to cover it up. These are dry toilets, where you’ll have to use toilet paper. There will be a room freshener as well. It’s the most hygienic and convenient way to answer nature’s call in the wild. Please use plain toilet paper and refrain from using wet wipes since these are not bio-degradable.

16. What kind of food is served on the trek? Should we carry any food?

Indiahikes uses a well planned menu suitable for high altitude treks. Breakfast varies from bread and butter, semia, poha to sandwiches and cornflakes. Lunch mainly comprises of roti or puri with sabzi. Dinner is complete with Dal, rice, roti and dessert. Dry ration of biscuits and chikki will be provided as well. You may carry nuts and dry fruits if necessary.

17. Will there be water sources on the way? Will two litres of water be enough?

Our campsites are pitched near water sources. For your day’s trek, two litres of water should be enough. You will find several water sources on Day 1 and one water source on Day 2 of the trek.

18. Is there mobile network on this trek? Are there any electricity charging points on this trek?

Chafi has good network for Vodafone. Mobile connectivity will be intermittent during the trek and strong on the summit. Make sure you inform anxious family members about poor connectivity on the trail. There will be no electricity charging points anywhere on this trek.

19. Do I need special snow shoes on this trek?

You don’t need special snow shoes. A good trekking shoe is sufficient for the trek. We recommend a pair of shoes that is water resistant. When there is snow, we provide micro spikes and gaiters.

20. Why is the trekking pole necessary?

21. When it gets really cold can I consume alcohol?

Alcohol is dangerous in extreme cold, especially on high altitudes. Contrary to what people believe, alcohol does not make you warmer. Instead it opens your pores making your body colder. Moreover, it dehydrates you very quickly. Hence consumption of alcohol is absolutely prohibited on all Indiahikes treks. Anyone found with alcohol is quickly removed from the trek. Smoking, similarly, is not allowed on Indiahikes treks.

22. How long do we trek every day? What is the distance covered?

Day 1 – The drive from Kathgodam to Chaffi will take about an hour. The 8 km trek from Chaffi to Aghan will take about 6 hours.

Day 2 – The ascent from Aghan to Thakoor top and the descent to Chipa will take you around 7 hours and you’ll cover 8 km.

23. How do I manage the negative temperatures on the trek? Do I need special jackets?

At high altitudes, temperatures are sure to dip into negative at nights.. For these extreme cold temperatures, you need to keep the rule of 3 in mind. The rule of 3 usually takes care of cold that dip to -10°C. It is a simple formula of wearing 3 layers of woolen, inners and lower wear.

Follow this guide:

Wear one thermal and two T-shirts, three layers of woolens (two sweaters and a jacket). For your lowers wear a thermal inner with two layers of track suit. If you are prone to more cold, just add a layer.

The temperatures dip only late in the evening and early mornings. During the day if the sun is out, then you may even be trekking in your T-shirts. Make sure you use your thermal wear only at night and not while trekking.

A woolen cap/balaclava and gloves are a must.

24. What all do I need to carry on the trek?

Click here to get the list of all the things you need to carry on the trek.

25. Is it safe to trek with Indiahikes?

All high altitude treks come with their share of risks. At Indiahikes, we pay utmost importance to safety of trekkers. While we do our bit to ensure a trekker’s life is safe, we also expect any trekker who is enrolling with us to know what could go wrong, and if it does, how to tackle it. Before you go on the trek, make sure you’re thoroughly acquainted with the safety procedures followed on a trek.

How to get to the basecamp – Chaffi

Delhi → Kathgodam → Bhimtal → Chaffi

The starting point of this trek is a little town named Chaffi. It is a 30 km drive from Kathgodam via Bhimtal. These are the outskirts of Kumaon. So access to the base camp, Chaffi, is not very convenient. The best time to get vehicles from Kathgodam is between early morning and afternoon. Not many vehicles ply in the second half. There is no direct vehicle either. Break your journey at Bhimtal and take another vehicle further to Chaffi.

To reach KathgodamTake the Ranikhet Express from Delhi. It leaves at 20.05 pm from Old Delhi Railway Station. This train will reach Kathgodam at 5.30 am. Kathgodam is the last station and it is around 32km from Nainital.

What happens if you don’t get tickets on the Ranikhet Express?Ranikhet express is a crowded train and often gets booked many days in advance. Firstly, don’t look for an AC ticket. It is an overnight journey and even sleeper berths are comfortable. Book a Tatkal ticket. Your chance of getting a sleeper ticket in Tatkal is very high. If, for some reason, you still don’t get a ticket on the Ranikhet express, there are two options for you.

Option 1Take the earlier day’s Sampark Kranti from Old Delhi, which leaves at 4 pm. Tickets on the Sampark Kranti are usually easy to get as it is a day seating train. Stay overnight in a hotel at Kathgodam (or Haldwani) and join the team vehicle the next morning. KMVN Kathgodam is a good place to halt for the night. KMVN is Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam, a government tourist guest house right next to the railway station. The place is decent and clean. You can contact them on (Ph: 05946-266090, 8650002525, 9411589448) or you can book online at http://www.kmvn.gov.in/

Option 2Take an overnight bus from Delhi’s Anand Vihar ISBT to Haldwani/Kathgodam (7kms apart). Volvo buses leave Anand Vihar for Haldwani/Kathgodam around 9 pm. It is usually an 8 hour journey. There is no online booking, so arrive a couple of hours early at Anand Vihar to book your tickets. No advanced reservation is required. Try to get to Kathgodam early (by 6 am) to catch the Indiahikes pickup at the station.

Getting back

Chipa → Kathgodam → Delhi

The trek ends at Chipa. From here you get shared vehicles or buses to Kathgodam and Haldwani. Kathgodam is about 60 km from here. You’ll reach Kathgodam by 6 pm if you leave by 3 pm. You can book a night train from Kathgodam back to Delhi.

If you are travelling further from Kathgodam, you can book your transport post 8 pm, keeping two hours as buffer time in case of road blocks in the mountain roads.

Temperature Chart

Click on the chart to see average temperatures on the Thakoor Top trek

Rainfall Chart

Click on the Chart to see the Average Rainfall at Thakoor Top

ATM point and Mobile connectivity

Khutani Bend, around 4 km before Chafi is the last point where you will find an ATM but it is advisable that you withdraw money, if required, at Kathgodam.

Chafi has good network for Vodafone. Mobile connectivity will be intermittent during the trek and strong on the summit. Please inform anxious family members about poor connectivity during the trek.

What Other Trekkers Are Saying About Thakoor Top Trek

“ I was in first batch for this trek. Thakoor Top is probably the best weekend trek to enjoy so many varieties of forest. The Pine, the rhododendrons, the forest, water streams, river and rocks experiencing altogether in single trek in two days is the best part. There are so many spots throughout the trek where you would like to sit and enjoy the nature. Second best part of the trek is that you found very less crowd throughout the trek. You can feel the wind and water with your ears, what a music it was! When you reach the top, great satisfaction feeling you find inside you. Sitting at the top, watching snow capped peaks is just awesome. In few words Thakoor top is a must do trek.” – Shashank Shekhar, February 2017 batch

Weekend trek with so much variation— It is truly a trekker delight!

A great trek from Indiahikes explored and very well organized by our Team Leader Mr.Indrajit (who we called Commander) and very well taken care of by support staff( specially Mr.Dinesh). All the food provided by Indiahikes was hygienic and well thought of. – Anand Anal, February 2017 batch

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Aswati Anand is a journalist in love with the Himalayas. She is interested in stories of resilience from difficult terrains and sustainable living. When not mooning over the mountains, she can be seen doodling in her sketchbook.